Modelling mould growth risk in English social housing

Social housing may be at increased risk of damp and subsequent mould growth due to housing characteristics such as poor ventilation and energy efficiency, and occupant fuel poverty. In this study, surface relative humidity and temperature are estimated in flats in a typical low-rise multi-dwelling building in London using the EnergyPlus Heat and Moisture Transport (HAMT) model under different occupant activities. Mould Growth Index (MI) is then estimated using this data. Results indicate that MI is highly influenced by the amount of moisture generated indoors, indoor heating schedule, outdoor climate, and the floor level. Local governments should ensure that residents of social housing have sufficient access to affordable heating and extract fans to reduce mould exposure risk.